Dr. Morrell said the term green tie is somewhat misleading because both creosote and chemonite treated railroad ties have potentially harmful effects on the natural world.

Morrell added that functionality tests have been positive so far on ties treated with chemonite. He also said it looks to be more cost effective for the railroad in the long run.

Russell said he believes that the ties are more environmentally sound, and he said that is only one of many added benefits.

“These ties came from Oregon trees,” said Russell. “They were logged in the woods by Oregon loggers. They were milled by a mill in Oregon. They were treated in Oregon. Of course, they were transported by Oregonians. And now they’re being installed by Oregon crews for and Oregon railroad.”